What does monological mean?
Monological means relating to a monologue, or having the character of one: a long, uninterrupted address by a single speaker. In discussions of drama, rhetoric, and storytelling, it often describes a performance or passage that unfolds without dialogue, allowing one voice to dominate. The word can also carry a critical implication, suggesting that communication has become one-sided or that someone is taking up more of the conversation than is appropriate. Monological is related to the noun monologue but is more specific in tone and application: a monologue may be a planned dramatic speech, while something described as monological may merely resemble that form. Although the adjective can occasionally mean excessively talkative, that usage is less common. The word is especially useful when discussing performance, public speaking, interviews, and conversational imbalance, where the presence or absence of dialogue is significant.
adjectiveRelating to or resembling a monologue; consisting of or characterized by an extended speech by one speaker. Less commonly, inclined to talk at length.
- Relating to a monologue or resembling one in its extended, one-speaker form.
- Characterized by talking at length, especially without allowing others to participate.
"Her monological performance transformed the scene into an intimate confession."
"The play unfolds as a long, monological meditation on memory."
"His monological habits made it difficult for anyone else to contribute to the discussion."
A monological performance puts the audience at the mercy of one voice, with no dialogue to relieve the pressure.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How monological is actually used
The word is more common in literary, theatrical, and analytical contexts than in everyday conversation. The sense meaning excessively talkative is comparatively uncommon and may sound formal or critical.